AutoCodesChevrolet – P0303 2016 Chevrolet Silverado

P0303 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected

Quick Answer

A misfiring cylinder causes slight variations in the rotational speed of the crankshaft. Common causes include Faulty Spark Plug #3, Clogged or faulty Fuel Injector #3, Faulty Ignition Coil #3. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0303 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Spark Plug #3, Clogged or faulty Fuel Injector #3, Faulty Ignition Coil #3.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
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Code Popularity 548
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 23, 2023
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Code P0303 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Description

A misfiring cylinder causes slight variations in the rotational speed of the crankshaft. The Engine Control Module (ECM) can detect these variations by closely monitoring the crankshaft position sensor signal. The signals of the camshaft position sensors are used to determine which cylinder is misfiring. If the ECM detects a misfire rate sufficient to cause emission levels to exceed mandated standards, the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set. Under certain driving conditions, a misfire rate can be high enough to cause the catalytic converter to overheat, damaging the converter. The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) flashes when the converter is overheating, damaging conditions are present, and the DTC is set. The DTC will be set when the ECM detects a crankshaft rotation speed variation indicating a single-cylinder misfire rate sufficient to cause emissions levels to exceed mandated standards.
OBDII Code P0303 2016 Chevrolet Silverado - Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected - AutoCodes.com
P0303 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Cylinder 3 Misfire Detected

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0303 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

  • Faulty Spark Plug #3
  • Clogged or faulty Fuel Injector #3
  • Faulty Ignition Coil #3
  • Fuel Injector #3 harness is open or shorted
  • Fuel Injector #3 circuit poor electrical connection
  • Ignition Coil #3 harness is open or shorted
  • Ignition Coil #3 circuit poor electrical connection
  • Insufficient cylinder 3 compression
  • Incorrect fuel pressure
  • Intake air leak

How to Fix the DTC P0303 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0303 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0303 2016 Chevrolet Silverado code?

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0303 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0303 mean on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

P0303 indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a misfire in cylinder 3 of your Silverado.

2. What are the common symptoms of a P0303 code on a 2016 Chevy Silverado?

Symptoms may include rough idling, reduced engine performance, poor fuel economy, illuminated check engine light, and possible engine shaking or hesitation.

3. What causes the P0303 code to appear on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Common causes include a faulty spark plug, bad ignition coil, clogged fuel injector, vacuum leak, low compression in cylinder 3, or an issue with the ECM.

4. Can I drive my 2016 Silverado with a P0303 code?

Driving with this code is not recommended, as it can lead to further engine damage, reduced performance, and potential safety issues.

5. How can I fix the P0303 code on my 2016 Chevy Silverado?

Start by inspecting and replacing the spark plug and ignition coil for cylinder 3. If the issue persists, check for a clogged fuel injector, vacuum leaks, or perform a compression test.

6. How much does it cost to repair a P0303 code on a 2016 Silverado?

Costs vary depending on the issue. Replacing a spark plug or ignition coil may cost $100–$300, while fixing fuel injector or compression issues can be more expensive.

7. Can a dirty air filter cause a P0303 code on a 2016 Chevy Silverado?

A dirty air filter alone is unlikely to cause a P0303 code, but it can contribute to overall engine performance issues that might exacerbate a misfire.

8. Will a bad fuel injector trigger a P0303 code on a 2016 Silverado?

Yes, a faulty or clogged fuel injector can cause improper fuel delivery to cylinder 3, leading to a misfire and triggering the P0303 code.

9. How do I diagnose a P0303 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?

Use an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, then inspect the spark plug, ignition coil, and fuel injector for cylinder 3. Check for vacuum leaks or perform a compression test if needed.

10. Can low fuel pressure cause the P0303 code on a 2016 Silverado?

Yes, low fuel pressure can cause insufficient fuel delivery to cylinder 3, which may result in a misfire and trigger the P0303 code.

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